A Novel Experience – A Visit to Barter Books Alnwick

Barter Books in Alnwick is the most magical place for book lovers and is somewhere I could happily pass a day (week/month) or two curled up in a chair devouring a book.

As a child I experienced worlds beyond my imagination through the books I read. And I am fairly sure that my obsession and love of travel comes from the inspiration those authors gave me. From the make-believe lands of Enid Blyton’s Magic Faraway Tree to the Argentinian Pampas and African jungle described by Gerald Durrell these books were an escape to me – a 10 year old girl living on the Northumberland coast.

My husband had heard about Barter Books while watching an episode of Portillo’s travels around the UK and it is a must visit if you are in Northumberland. Apparently over 350,000 people a year visit Barter books with 40% from outside the area. This gives you an indication of just how special this book shop is!

Just wonderful who can resist Barter Books?

BACKGROUND TO BARTER BOOKS

Barter Books Alnwick was opened by Mary Manley in 1991 and is now one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Europe. It is situated inside a Victorian railway station which is a beautiful building with so much character. Those with a particular interest in the station’s history and architecture can follow the Alnwick Station Walkabout ‘A self-guided historical tour.’ This gives a step-by step room by room description of the building.

There are books everywhere and comfortable chairs and sofas and fires and even a train running on tracks above your head. There are amazing quotes joining bookcase to bookcase and beautiful murals to enjoy.

The 3 murals were commissioned by the owners. They are – the “Famous Writers mural” (see who you can spot) – the “Railway mural” which consists of the names of railway workers who worked at the station between 1850 and 1968 and finally the “Tennyson Installation.” This was inspired by the work of artist Mark Handforth and contains the first lines of Tennyson’s poem ‘Crossing the bar.’ (source from the Barter Books leaflet)

A great interview with Mary Manley and her husband Stuart will give you more insight into the motivations of the owners behind the creation of this amazing book shop.

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON AT BARTER BOOKS

Barter Books is the home of the iconic “Keep Calm and Carry On” poster which has seen a resurgence of popularity in recent years. Find out how the poster came to the attention of the nation and the world after their discovery in a box in Barter Books!

FOOD AND DRINK AVAILABLE AT BARTER BOOKS

There is a station buffet shop at Barter Books and we enjoyed a very tasty meal followed by a nice cuppa with some cake!

We absolutely loved spending time at Barter Books….what more could you ask for? Over 350,000 second hand books including some very rare (and expensive ones), WiFi, free parking and a station buffet? This is a very special place and if you are in Northumberland a must visit!

We plan to visit again in winter, choose a good book and curl up on one of their sofas, enjoy a warm fire and a hot chocolate from the station buffet. What better way to spend a winter’s day?

TIPS WHEN VISITING BARTER BOOKS ALNWICK

Barter Books is in Alnwick in beautiful Northumberland about 35 miles north of Newcastle.

PIN FOR LATER – BARTER BOOKS ALNWICK

She has lived and worked in 7 countries on 4 continents and travelled to over 50 more. A qualified school teacher with an interest in history, reading, photography, nature and wildlife she is always planning her next trip (preferably by train)

Through down-to-earth stories, tips and advice (based on her own extensive knowledge and experience of life as an expat) she aims to support new and prospective expats to survive and thrive in Australia.

With a lifetime of travel experience, and a network of friends all over the world, she is also able to share genuine insider guides, recommended best book lists and train journey inspiration to help you travel authentically to some of the most beautiful places on earth.

Books and trains — a winning combination! I would LOVE to visit this charming bookstore. I could spend a heavenly day here exploring all the shelves. Pinning for future travel inspiration!Sharon recently posted…A Walk in the Latin Quarter of Paris

What a fabulous bookstore and in a train station. How great to curl up with a good book in winter by the fire or look for an old book. Great place to visit. Pinned for later. #feetdotravelStephanie (1AdventureTraveler) recently posted…Kyoto Cherry Blossom in Japan

Everything about this place oozes character! The fact it’s in a Victorian station, and I love that it has chairs and sofas to curl up and read. A wonderful few hours can be whiled away curled up with a delicious hot coffee and a good book, brilliant! #feetdotravel

I can’t imagine a more perfect winter’s day! I love old bookstores, and this one is so charming. It reminds me a bit of Powell’s books in Portland, Or which has a similar feel with the quotes on the walls. However, this one seems even more quaint and magical. Thank you for sharing 🙂

G’DAY!

Spending over 40 years living and working in 7 countries across 4 continents has given me a unique perspective on expat life.

In this blog I share practical tips, advice and experiences of expat life in Australia. I also include supportive, reflective and informative posts addressing the practicalities and ups and downs of moving countries.

For those who seek authentic travel my focus on real experiences of living, working and travelling in many of the most beautiful countries around the globe, detailed world-wide destination guides and comprehensive reading lists will help you achieve your goal.

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